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Diabetes is a serious health condition that affects millions of people across the United States. It is especially common in the Hispanic community. Hispanic adults are 80% more likely to have diabetes than non-Hispanic white adults. This higher risk is due to a combination of factors, including genetics, cultural habits, and social circumstances. Curious why diabetes is more common in Hispanic people, as well as the impact of culture on the disease? Here is an overview, with steps you can take to lower your risk and manage the condition.
Why Is Diabetes So Common in the Hispanic Community?
Some Hispanic people carry genes that make them more likely to develop diabetes. For example, research shows that people of Mexican ancestry are more likely to have a gene called SLC16A11, which increases the risk of type 2 diabetes. Other groups, like those with more Indigenous or African ancestry, also tend to have higher rates of diabetes. Hispanic people are more likely to have insulin resistance, a condition where the body doesn’t respond well to insulin. This makes it harder for the body to regulate blood sugar levels, which can lead to diabetes.
Obesity is a major risk factor for diabetes, and it is more common among Hispanic people. This is partly due to cultural eating habits and limited access to healthy foods. Studies show that obesity rates among Hispanic men and women are significantly higher than the national average. Many Hispanic people face challenges like lower income, lack of health insurance, and limited access to healthcare. These social factors can make it harder to manage or prevent diabetes. Without access to regular medical checkups or affordable medications, many people are diagnosed later when the disease is already advanced.
The Impact of Hispanic Culture
Hispanic culture plays an important role in how diabetes is managed and treated. In some parts of the Hispanic community, being slightly overweight is seen as a sign of good health. This belief can sometimes stop people from recognizing the risks of obesity and taking steps to manage their weight. Additionally, language barriers and reliance on natural remedies can delay medical treatment for diabetes.
- Diet: Traditional Hispanic foods can be rich in carbohydrates and fats. These contribute to weight gain and higher blood sugar levels. However, these dishes can often be made healthier by adjusting the preparation methods. For example, choosing grilled chicken or fish instead of fried meats, or replacing white rice with brown rice or cauliflower rice, can help control blood sugar levels. Opting for lighter meals like soups or salads with grilled meat is also a good choice.
- Physical Activity: Physical activity is an important part of managing diabetes, but it needs to fit into daily life. For many in the Hispanic community, dancing is a popular form of exercise. Salsa dancing, for instance, is a fun way to stay active and can help reduce the risk of diabetes. Walking is another easy and low-cost way to stay fit.
- Religious Beliefs: Religion is a major part of Hispanic culture, and some people may believe that their diabetes is God’s will. While this belief, called fatalismo, can sometimes stop people from seeking medical care, religion can also be a source of strength. Support from a faith community can help people cope with the challenges of managing diabetes.
How to Lower the Risk of Diabetes
If you are at risk of developing diabetes or have been diagnosed with prediabetes, there are steps you can take to lower your risk.
- Eat a Healthy Diet: Focus on eating more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins like chicken and fish. Limit sugary drinks and high-fat foods. Portion control is key—smaller meals spread throughout the day can help keep blood sugar levels stable.
- Stay Active: Try to get at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week. Activities like walking, dancing, or cycling are great ways to stay active without needing expensive equipment or gym memberships.
- Regular Checkups: Regular doctor visits are important for keeping track of your blood sugar levels. Screening tests can help catch diabetes early, when it is easier to manage. If cost or transportation is an issue, look for community health clinics that offer free or low-cost services.
- Manage Stress: Stress can affect blood sugar levels, so it’s important to find ways to manage it. Yoga, meditation, or spending time with family can help reduce stress and improve overall health.
Managing Diabetes
For people who have already been diagnosed with diabetes, it is important to take steps to manage the disease! This is the best way to avoid serious complications. If your doctor has prescribed insulin or other medications to control your blood sugar, make sure you take them as directed. Skipping doses can lead to uncontrolled blood sugar levels, which increases the risk of complications.
Checking your blood sugar regularly can help you understand how your body responds to different foods and activities. This information can help you and your doctor make adjustments to your treatment plan if needed. Diabetes education programs, especially those that are culturally relevant, can be very helpful. These programs teach you how to manage your condition and make healthier choices. Many community health centers offer programs in Spanish to help bridge the language gap.
By making healthier food choices, staying active, and seeking medical care, people can reduce their risk of developing diabetes or manage their condition effectively. It is important to recognize the role that culture plays in how diabetes is perceived and treated. Be sure to stop by PatientsLikeMe for more information and support!